The commercial rooftop solar brief

Gather drawings, available inspection information and a current record of obstructions. Do not assume that all visible roof area is available for modules. Ask qualified professionals to assess structural suitability.

Provide consumption and connection information alongside the proposed installation area. A roof layout and an electrical layout should be reviewed together, including maintenance and emergency access.

Ask suppliers to identify included equipment, engineering assumptions and exclusions. Separate equipment warranties from installation obligations and forecast generation assumptions.

Write down the missing information from this guide and assign an owner to each item. Keep the current revision of your brief with the associated drawings and records.

A roof plan should show more than the outline available for modules. Mark access routes, rooflights, drainage, existing plant and the locations that must remain available for inspection or maintenance. Provide dated photographs and distinguish measured dimensions from early estimates. A structural review and the applicable installation requirements belong with qualified project professionals. On the electrical side, describe the point of connection, current consumption pattern and any planned expansion. Record who will confirm the connection arrangement and the limits relevant to the project. A warehouse with large roof space but modest daytime consumption raises different questions from a factory with a steady daytime load. Before requesting a firm proposal, compare the same usable area, access assumptions and scope of work across suppliers. List what still depends on a site survey so an early concept is not mistaken for a finished installation design.